A Major Manufacturer of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations opts for Durham County for Its Upcoming Production Site

A Major Manufacturer of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations opts for Durham County for Its Upcoming Production Site. As it establishes a new manufacturing facility, Kempower Inc., a producer of electric car charging stations, will add more than 300 jobs, according to a statement made today by Governor Roy Cooper. The company intends to invest $41 million in the project, highlighting once more the booming clean energy economy in North Carolina.

“North Carolina’s global reputation as a clean energy manufacturing powerhouse continues to grow,” said Governor Cooper. “Electric vehicle charging stations are a key component of our transportation infrastructure and we welcome these high-wage clean energy jobs that Kempower brings to our state.”

The Finland-based Kempower Corporation (Nasdaq Nordic: KEMPOWR), a global leader in DC charging technology, produces and distributes a comprehensive range of the electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions for large electric car fleets, original equipment manufacturers, and public charging stations (OEMs). Drivers will get the best charging experience possible thanks to the company’s exceptional software and unique dynamic power-sharing technology, which guarantees maximum power distribution during the charging process. In Northern Europe, where EV drivers value the dependability, quality, use, and safety of the company’s charging solutions, Kempower has experienced tremendous growth.

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides $109 million to North Carolina to build a network of fast-charging electric vehicle charging stations along designated major highways and in communities. Kempower will begin producing NEVI-compliant DC fast-charging units in North Carolina in 2023 and will be able to directly supply its customers in the United States. The NEVI plan of N.C. DOT would guarantee that key highways had at least four DC-Fast Chargers per 50 miles.

“We think North Carolina is a perfect location for us and fulfills our high ESG requirements. I would like to thank the State of North Carolina for the fantastic support during the thorough evaluation process. We will make sure that the global Kempower team works together to successfully scale up the production in the U.S.,” said Kempower’s CEO Tomi Ristimäki. “Kempower is committed to making EV charging reliability a top priority. In the U.S., driving long distances is more common than in Europe, making the reliability of chargers an even more pressing issue. By having a tried and tested system in place to ensure the reliability of our chargers, we have the confidence that our chargers are fit to serve the continent’s EV drivers.”

“North Carolina’s manufacturing workforce continues to deliver a competitive edge to companies like Kempower,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “We never take for granted the importance of a strong, well-trained workforce. As our First in Talent strategic plan makes clear, we’ll continue to invest in our people and the educational systems that create opportunities for everyone.”

A Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee earlier today would help Kempower’s project in North Carolina. The project is expected to boost the state’s economy by $726.25 million during the grant’s 12-year duration. The JDIG agreement enables the possible repayment to the Company of up to $3,010,500, distributed over 12 years, based on a formula that accounts for the increased tax revenues created by 306 new employees and in recognition of capital expenditure of $41.2 million.

“We’re excited to welcome these new clean energy jobs to our region,” said N.C. Senator Natalie Murdock. “Kempower’s decision to locate operations in Durham County shows people around the world that we’re the perfect location for tomorrow’s leading industries.”

“Many people in our area have worked behind the scenes to bring Kempower to our area,” said N.C. Representative Zack Hawkins. “Our community welcomes this global company to Durham and the Research Triangle region. All of us will continue to help its leaders connect to our community and employees find success in North Carolina.”